Personal protective equipment (PPE) is a fundamental element in the field of occupational safety and health, since it represents the last barrier of the worker facing a certain risk. Therefore, it is crucial that PPE complies with existing regulations to guarantee its function. Accidents and occupational diseases are aspects that concern all workers, and PPE are key elements to reduce these risks.
In Spain, ASEPAL, Association of Companies of Personal Protection Equipment, and that groups more than 90% of companies that carry out this activity, it is revealed as the essential association to perform the tasks of representation of this sector, as well as to work with all its ecosystem in the fields of safety and health at work.
ASEPAL was set up in 1989 as a response to the new implementation of European regulations governing the commercialization and use of PPE (Individual Protection Equipment) at the community level. This milestone marked the birth of this sector, and where before there were companies that worked with plastic, rubber, textiles, leather, footwear, etc., began to speak of companies that were dedicated to the specialized manufacture of EPI.
Since then, ASEPAL has grouped manufacturers and main distributors of personal protective equipment (EPI), becoming a reference entity, both in the national context and in international markets.
The work that is done from ASEPAL focuses on:
- Sensitization and awareness of the importance of the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and training for its proper functioning.
- Information and guidance demanded by any member of the association.
- Information and technical advice.
- Dissemination of these issues in the public opinion.
In this context, it works in coordination with the competent Ministries, the Administration, the employers, the trade unions, and other associations of the sector, with a view to the creation and modification of directives, norms and regulations.
On the other hand, the associates can count on ASEPAL as an institution that represents and defends the interests of its members before the State, Autonomic and Local Administrations, and all kinds of people, entities, organisms and institutions. Also, as a very important aspect within its sphere of activity, The organization is responsible for the promotion of research and study on personal safety.